Gold Panda - 'Kingdom' EP

Gold Panda - 'Kingdom' EP

Producer releases politically-charged EP after Brexit vote

7/10

Having only just released his latest full-length album 'Good Luck And Do Your Best' in May, producer Gold Panda has rushed out to release a quick EP of tracks in light of the recent Brexit vote. And while the beatmaker's preference of progressive instrumentalism doesn't really lend itself to political commentary, with tracks like 'Mediaevil' and 'Eurotunnel', I think we get the message.

As far as the music goes, this is Gold Panda-by-numbers as the producer has once again created a backdrop to an idea that only fulfils part of its process. His music always comes with a story attached, and it is that narrative that adds the imagery in your head as you listen. Only this time, you don't have to imagine the turmoil and confusion as we are currently living it, yet this EP seems to show a lighter side to the issues it addresses. You get a real sense of calming and optimism in his music and it is surely the attitude he is trying to get across.

This seems like a good continuation from his last release, which again addressed differences in cultures from around the world, so this material is very much part of his current wave of thinking. Melodic and interesting throughout, 'Kingdom' certainly aims to shine a light on what is a dark and uncertain time.